At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead design coordination for exciting construction projects across various sectors.
- Company: Established regional contractor with a focus on innovative design and build.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, car allowance, and annual bonus opportunities.
- Other info: Office-based role with national travel for site visits.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and shape the future of construction projects nationwide.
- Qualifications: 10-15 years in construction design and stakeholder management required.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 70000 £ per year.
Client: Tier 2 Main Contractor
Sector: D&B Industrial / Commercial / Motor Retail / Leisure / Education
Location: Office-Based, Warwickshire (with national project travel as required)
Engagement: Permanent
Salary/Package: Up to £70k + £5k car allowance + discretionary annual bonus (typically £5k–£10k)
Start: ASAP – subject to successful interview
We are working on behalf of a well-established regional Design & Build main contractor to appoint a Design Manager to join their growing team and support the delivery of multiple live projects across the UK. The business delivers fast-paced, steel frame-led construction projects across a range of sectors including:
- Industrial & logistics
- Motor retail
- Commercial
- Education
- Retail & leisure
- Social care
The Role
This position will take responsibility for managing the design coordination process across 2–3 live projects at any one time. Working under JCT D&B contracts, the Design Manager will act as the key link between client-side consultants and subcontract design teams throughout the project lifecycle.
You will:
- Coordinate consultant and subcontract design packages from inception through to completion
- Ensure design information is delivered in line with programme
- Chair and manage design team meetings
- Monitor progress against design release schedules
- Manage RFIs and resolve design queries
- Liaise closely with Commercial & Project teams
- Support value engineering opportunities
- Ensure design compliance with statutory approvals and accreditations (e.g. Building Regs, planning, BREEAM)
- Maintain strong working relationships with external consultants and subcontractors
- Oversee design-related risks and buildability challenges
The role will also involve:
- Supporting pre-construction activity including tender reviews
- Managing design progress on live sites
- Supporting project completion and handover documentation
Key Environment
Office-based role in Warwickshire
National travel for site visits as required
Typically managing shell & core / steel frame projects
Working closely with novated consultants
Salary & Package
Salary negotiable – up to £70k (dependent on experience)
£5k car allowance
Annual discretionary bonus typically £5k–£10k
Ideal Background
This opportunity would suit a Design Manager currently working within:
- Industrial / logistics construction
- Commercial build environments
- Steel frame / fast-track projects
- Main contractor delivery roles
Experience working under Design & Build contracts is essential. Typically, we are looking for candidates with 10–15 years of diverse building experience and a solid grounding in construction design, detailing, and stakeholder management.
Please apply with your up-to-date CV, full contact details (including postcode) and availability to arrange a call to: (url removed)
Paid Referral Scheme – up to £500* If you can recommend a suitable candidate who results in a successful permanent placement, we offer a referral fee of up to £500 (*T&Cs apply)
Design Manager employer: Kingdom Search
Join a well-established regional Design & Build main contractor in Warwickshire, where you will thrive in a dynamic work culture that values collaboration and innovation. With competitive salaries, generous car allowances, and discretionary bonuses, this role offers not only financial rewards but also significant opportunities for professional growth and development across diverse sectors. Experience the unique advantage of working on national projects while being part of a supportive team dedicated to delivering excellence in construction.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in what they do and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your experience and how it aligns with the role of Design Manager. Highlight your skills in managing design coordination and working under JCT D&B contracts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Design Manager role. Highlight your experience in managing design coordination and working under JCT D&B contracts. We want to see how your background fits with our fast-paced, steel frame-led projects.
Showcase Relevant Experience:When writing your application, focus on your experience in sectors like industrial, commercial, or education. We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate their ability to manage multiple live projects and liaise effectively with consultants and subcontractors.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to see your key achievements and skills. Remember, we’re looking for someone who can manage design processes efficiently!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kingdom Search
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with the types of projects the company has worked on, especially in the industrial and commercial sectors. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their project types, like steel frame construction or D&B contracts.
✨Showcase Your Coordination Skills
As a Design Manager, you'll be managing multiple projects simultaneously. Prepare examples that highlight your ability to coordinate design teams and manage RFIs effectively. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you resolved them.
✨Understand the Compliance Landscape
Brush up on relevant regulations and compliance standards such as Building Regulations and BREEAM. Being able to discuss how you ensure design compliance will show that you’re not just a creative thinker but also a practical problem-solver.
✨Build Rapport with Interviewers
During the interview, focus on building a connection with your interviewers. Ask insightful questions about their current projects and express genuine interest in their work culture. This can set you apart and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role.
